“It Was Always Liverpool” — Virgil van Dijk Signs New Deal
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has officially signed a contract extension, ensuring his journey with the Reds will continue well into the future.
The Dutch defender, who joined the club in January 2018 from Southampton, says there was never any doubt in his mind about where he wanted to be.
The skipper stays. pic.twitter.com/5aCZj0WndC
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 17, 2025
Loyalty Locked In: “It Was Always Liverpool”
In an exclusive interview with LiverpoolFC.com, van Dijk shared his pride and emotion after committing to a new deal with the club he now calls home.
“I’m very happy, very proud,” he said. “There are so many emotions obviously that go through my head right now speaking about it.
“It’s a proud feeling, it’s a feeling of joy. It’s just incredible. The journey I’ve had so far in my career, to be able to extend it with another two years at this club is amazing and I’m so happy.”
He added: “It was always Liverpool. That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool.”
Now 33, Van Dijk was described recently as an “adopted Scouser” — a title he says he wears with pride.
He said: “There wasn’t any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I’m one of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.”
A Career Full of Silverware
Since his January 2018 move from from Southampton, van Dijk has racked up over 300 appearances and played a central role in Liverpool’s trophy-laden era. His honours include:
Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, League Cups (2), UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.
Along the way, he picked up individual recognition too — PFA Player of the Year (2019) and Ballon d’Or runner-up the same year, proving defenders do get the spotlight when they’re this good.
A New Era, Same Rock at the Back
With Mohamed Salah also signing fresh terms recently, Van Dijk’s deal is another major boost for the Reds as they prepare for life after Jürgen Klopp.
The club might be heading into a period of change, but Van Dijk’s message is clear: he’s not going anywhere.